Test Prep Success Tips

Be sure that you have a designated study area where you can devote your fully attention to the task at hand – studying. Also make sure that you are free from distractions (i.e. radio and television) and have ample lighting. Good study habits will definitely be reflected in better scores.
 
Most educators agree that studying should be an active process – not just spending time reviewing information. You can get more involving in studying by redoing assignments, rewriting your notes, being quizzed by friends and creating an outline of the material you are studying. You may wish to “gaze into your crystal ball” and think about what questions you will be asked or imagine what skills you will need to display.  All these activities will not only get you involved but make studying more interesting.
 
Test preparation also entails being informed about the test and testing procedures. Ask your teacher or instructor what kinds of questions are involved: true/false, multiple choice, essay, graphs, or equations. During test day will you need a calculator or any formulas? You may also wish to consult with your instructors about the best ways to study for specific parts of the exam.
 
The term “test preparation” is synonymous with SAT and ACT exams, along with LSAT, GMAT, GRE or MCAT testing. The following suggestion will be prove beneficial to anyone taking these remanding standardized tests:

1. Practice sections and exams should be done under conditions as close to as the actual exam. For instance, practice exams should be taken during the same time and general day you are scheduled for the actual exam.
2. These tests demand that you establish a proper study schedule, and stick to it. Consider the effort you put into studying the same as a part-time job, devoting 2-to-3 hours per day exclusively for exam preparation. Select only one or two test prep books and stay focused on them.
3. Typically, students only get once chance to take a major test such as the PSAT, SAT, ACT or other grad level exam (GRE & LSAT). If you need help seek out private tutors to assist you in the test preparation process. These highly trained skilled professionals can prove to be invaluable in providing direction and helping you successfully cope with the many aspects of taking the exam.
4. It is important to note that these tests are time sensitive. So, if you have problems with time or feel undue pressure answering questions under time limits – practice under faster time limits. This will develop your skills at gauging time.
5. When dealing with math problems, the method is more important than the result. You need to be able to explain how you got to the right answer to be able to duplicate correct answers in the test environment. With math, you need to understand each step along with the methodology.
6. One successful technique for verbal problems is to read the verbal passage out loud before attempting to correctly answer the questions. By reading out loud, you can hear what the author is writing then if you can explain the passages main points, you will know the answers before you scan the questions. The more involved you become the better you will understand the questions.
7. Be prepared on test day with all the supplies you will need (i.e. #2 pencils, a calculator and admissions credentials).  Being prepared will help calm jittery nerves.

Go into the testing process expecting the unexpected. Chances are you will be seeing unfamiliar questions. If you don’t know the answer, make sure you eliminate as many problems that are not logical along with those that have no basis for being a right answer. Fortunately, these skills can be developed with practice.
 
Try to manage your stress. You can take many exams again without being penalized. Traditionally, admissions offices will look to your highest score. If you have above normal test anxiety, you may wish to consult with tutors who can put your worry into prospective.
 
Let these test preparation tips and suggestions give you a competitive advantage to help you achieve your personal and professional goals.